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Top 12 Aberdeen Sunrise Spots to Make You a Morning Person (Or at Least Try to Be One!)
A couple of months ago, I decided I was going to become a morning person and set out on a mission to watch the sunrise every day for a week. Trust me, if you’ve ever tried waking up early when you’re not a morning person, you’ll know it’s a struggle.
Anyway, on day one, I dragged myself out of bed and stumbled outside to find the perfect sunrise spot. Half asleep, I perched myself on a random hill, only to realise I was facing west—totally missed the sunrise!
But hey, one thing led to another, and I ended up discovering the best spots. So, if you’re looking to catch a gorgeous sunrise (and not repeat my mistake), here’s a list of the top sunrise spots in Aberdeen that you absolutely have to check out.
Aberdeen Beach
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Website: https://www.visitscotland.com/info/towns-villages/aberdeen-beach-p1430651
Contact details: +44 122 428 8828
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Directions
Aberdeen Beach is pretty iconic, and, honestly, catching the first rays of the day here is absolutely worth rolling out of bed early. The long stretch of sandy shore is perfect for finding a spot to settle down and watch as the sun pops up over the North Sea.
You’ll often see joggers, dog walkers, and fellow sunrise enthusiasts all there. Aside from the stunning sunrise views, Aberdeen Beach has a lovely esplanade where you can stroll and a variety of cafes and restaurants to grab breakfast.
The area is also home to Codona’s Amusement Park, an absolute blast if you’re into fun and games. There’s also a golf course nearby if you want to get in a round or two.
Pro tip:
Parking can get a bit tight, especially on weekends, so aim to get there a bit earlier. Also, bring a thermos of your favourite hot drink because coastal mornings can be quite chilly!
Footdee (Fittie) Village
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Footdee, or Fittie as locals call it, is such a quirky and charming spot! This quaint fishing village is a fantastic spot to catch the sunrise because of its unique atmosphere and the picturesque cottages that look straight out of a storybook.
Honestly, Fittie is the perfect backdrop for those early morning hues. Once the sun is up, the narrow lanes and traditional cottages make for some excellent photo opportunities.
There are no big attractions or restaurants here, which is part of its charm. It’s just a slice of old Aberdeen where you can soak in the historical vibes.
Pro tip:
Make sure to get there early so you’ll have plenty of time to choose your perfect spot.
Torry Battery
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Website: https://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/aberdeen/torrybattery/index.html
Contact details: +44 122 462 4824
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Directions
Torry Battery is an ancient fortification with a bit of a rugged feel. The elevated position means you get a brilliant view of Aberdeen Harbour and, of course, the sunrise over the water.
Besides the sunrise, Torry Battery is a fantastic spot for dolphin watching. They’re often seen playing in the waters just off the coast.
The place also has an interesting history, so if you’re a history buff, you’ll love exploring the old structures and learning about its past. There’s a coastal path if you fancy a walk or cycle ride post-sunrise—it really lets you soak in the views.
Pro tip:
Binoculars can be really useful here for spotting wildlife, especially the dolphins. Also, the ground can be a bit uneven, so sturdy footwear is a good idea to avoid any tumbles!
Dunnottar Castle
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Website: https://www.dunnottarcastle.co.uk/
Contact details: +44 156 976 6320
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Directions
Dunnottar Castle ruins stand on a dramatic cliff overlooking the North Sea, making it a truly magical spot to watch the sun climb over the horizon. It’s about a 20-minute drive south of Aberdeen, but trust me, the early start and the drive are absolutely worth it.
After you’ve had your fill of the sunrise, there are ruins to explore! The castle itself is loaded with history, and you can spend hours wandering around and soaking it all in.
Nearby Stonehaven is also worth checking out; the harbour town has a quaint charm with great spots to grab a bite or a coffee.
Pro tip:
Remember to wear comfortable shoes because the paths to the castle can be steep and rugged. And, if you’re planning to visit inside the castle, check the opening times beforehand—we wouldn’t want you to miss out on any part of this adventure!
Kincorth Hill
Kincorth Hill is a bit of a hidden gem and is a local nature reserve with plenty of trails to explore. The hill gives you an elevated view over the city and the River Dee, making those early morning sun rays absolutely worth it.
The view is panoramic, so you get a fantastic perspective as the sky gradually brightens. After catching the sunrise, you can spend more time exploring the numerous walking paths.
The great thing is that you’ll find lots of benches along the trails where you can sit back and enjoy the surroundings.
Pro tip:
If you’re into geocaching, Kincorth Hill has several caches hidden around, which adds a bit of adventure to your morning.
Make sure to wear comfortable shoes since the trails can get a bit muddy, especially after rain. Carry a small map of the trails if it’s your first time; it’s easy to lose your way without one.
Newburgh Seal Beach
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Newburgh Seal Beach is located just a short drive from Aberdeen and offers a quiet, peaceful setting to watch the dawn. The River Ythan estuary meets the North Sea here, so the interplay of water and light can be quite magical.
Besides the sunrise, Newburgh Seal Beach is known for its wildlife. You’ve got a good chance of spotting seals lounging on the sands, and bird watchers will be delighted with the variety of species that frequent the area.
The expansive sand dunes are fun to explore, and if you’re into dog walking, Newburgh is a pet-friendly zone. There’s also a golf course nearby, perfect for those who want to get a round in post-sunrise.
Pro tip:
Don’t forget to bring a pair of binoculars for the best seal and bird watching experience. Also, keep an eye on the tides if you’re planning to walk along the estuary; the water can rise quickly.
Greyhope Bay
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Website: https://www.greyhopebay.com/
Contact details: [email protected]
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Directions
Greyhope Bay is near the iconic Girdle Ness Lighthouse, providing a cool maritime feel. The vantage point here is excellent for sweeping views over the harbour and out to the open sea.
Post-sunrise, this spot is fantastic for a leisurely coastal walk. There are rock pools to explore, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot some dolphins playing in the bay.
The lighthouse itself is worth a few photos, and you can continue your walk towards Torry Battery if you’re up for more exploration.
Pro tip:
Remember to dress warmly, especially if you’re planning to be near the water for a while. It can get quite windy, and layers will help you stay comfortable.
Balmedie Beach
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Balmedie Beach is a bit further out, but the trip is absolutely worth it. The beach is huge, with miles of sandy dunes that make for a stunning sunrise backdrop.
The vast, open space means you can find your own little corner to watch the sun come up without any crowd. Once you’ve enjoyed the sunrise, you can go on a hiking trip through the dunes.
Aside from that, the beach is also fantastic for a long walk or even horseback riding if you’re into that. For the adventurous, there’s also a designated area for water sports like windsurfing.
Pro tip:
It’s a great idea to bring some snacks and drinks with you, as there aren’t any shops close by. And a windbreaker jacket is essential—those coastal breezes can be pretty brisk, especially early in the morning!
Brimmond Hill
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Brimmond Hill is one of those spots where the sunrise is just incredible. It’s the highest point in Aberdeen, so you get a 360-degree view that’s just unbeatable.
When the sun rises, you can see the city, the coast, and even the distant mountains all lit up in the morning light. It’s a bit of a hike to get to the top, but totally worth it for the view alone.
Beyond catching a stunning sunrise, Brimmond Hill offers some great walking paths that range from easy to moderately challenging. You’ll also find information boards along the way detailing local wildlife and plant species, which adds a bit of educational sesh.
Pro tip:
Make sure to start your hike a bit earlier than sunrise to avoid the crowds and find a good spot at the summit. Also, bring a flashlight if you’re starting before dawn; some parts of the trail can be tricky in low light.
Old Aberdeen
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Old Aberdeen offers a unique sunrise experience right in the city. With its cobblestone streets and historic buildings like the King’s College Chapel and St. Machar’s Cathedral, you get a lovely mix of history and natural beauty as the sun comes up.
Once you’ve enjoyed the sunrise, there’s the Cruickshank Botanic Garden, which is peaceful in the early hours and offers a variety of plants and flowers to admire.
The area also has several historical sites and museums, like The Old Town House and the University of Aberdeen’s museum collections. Walking through the residential streets, you’ll find small cafés to grab a coffee and maybe a breakfast to start your day.
Pro tip:
Since Old Aberdeen is part of the university area, parking can be tricky. It’s best to visit early and find a spot or use public transit.
A good pair of walking shoes is also a must because the cobblestone streets can be uneven.
Bennachie Hill
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Bennachie Hill, just outside Aberdeen, is a local favourite with its rocky summit and sweeping views over the Aberdeenshire landscape. The hike is moderate but can be a bit steep in places.
When that first light breaks over the horizon, the sight is genuinely mesmerising. Moreover, there are trails suitable for all levels of hikers, so it’s a great spot whether you want a challenging trek or a leisurely walk.
Families will also enjoy the well-marked paths and accessible routes.
Pro tip:
Don’t forget to wear layers because the temperature can change quickly on the hill. A thermos of hot tea or coffee is a great idea to keep warm while you wait for the sunrise.
Countesswells Forest
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Website: https://scotland.forestry.gov.uk/visit/countesswells
Contact details: +44 300 067 6200
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Directions
Countesswells Forest offers a more tranquil and nature-immersed sunrise experience. Here, you’ll find multiple clearings and open areas, perfect for setting up to watch that golden hour.
Once the sun is up, Countesswells Forest has a lot to offer. The trails are well-maintained and perfect for walking, jogging, or mountain biking.
It’s also a fantastic place for dog walking, so feel free to bring your furry friend along. Most importantly, the forest is filled with wildlife, so you might spot deer, rabbits, or a variety of birds.
Pro tip:
Remember to bring a mosquito repellent if you’re visiting in the warmer months. The forest can also be quite muddy after rain, so waterproof footwear is a smart choice.